Saturday, July 28, 2012

The Olympic Spectrum


What does a 71 year old man from Japan have in common with three 15 year old girl from the United States and Great Britian?  They are all competing in the 2012 Olympics in London.   

With yesterday marking the start of the 2012 Summer Olympics I learned that equestrian rider Hiroshi Hoketsu is the oldest competitor at this year's games.  As if being a 71 year old Olympian isn't enough, he is also a returning Olympian, having made his debut in the 1964 Olympics and then competed again in 2008.  Interestingly Mr. Hoketsu also qualified for the 1988 Olympics but could not compete since his horse was quarantined.  This year he will compete in individual dressage.
On the other end of the spectrum are Katie Ledecky (an American swimmer),  Kyla Ross (an American gymnast) and Rebecca Tunney (a British gymnast).  All three are 15, the earliest age at which a competitor can qualify for the Olympics, and will make their debut in London.
With 56 more years of experience, maybe these girls could get a few tips from Mr. Hoketsu.

 Good Luck to all four of you!

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